Fact Check: "The nation’s population declined last month to 23,355,470 from 23,365,274 in April, the 17th consecutive month the population has shrunk."
What We Know
The claim states that the U.S. population has declined for 17 consecutive months, with a specific decrease in numbers from April to May. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population projections indicate that the U.S. population is expected to reach a high of nearly 370 million by 2080 before beginning to decline. However, the projections also reflect the impact of various factors, including COVID-19, which has influenced mortality rates and fertility trends over the past few years.
While the Census Bureau regularly updates its population estimates and projections based on new data, the specific figures for the population decline cited in the claim are not directly confirmed in the latest projections. The Census Bureau does provide estimates of population changes, but the exact monthly figures mentioned (23,355,470 and 23,365,274) are not explicitly detailed in the available projections.
Analysis
The claim about a 17-month consecutive decline in population requires careful scrutiny. The U.S. Census Bureau's projections and estimates are based on comprehensive data, including births, deaths, and migration patterns. However, the specific numbers provided in the claim do not appear in the cited source, which raises questions about their accuracy.
The source detailing the population projections does not confirm the exact population figures for the months in question, nor does it explicitly state that the population has been declining for 17 months. Instead, it discusses long-term trends and projections, which are subject to change as new data becomes available. This lack of direct evidence from a credible source like the Census Bureau suggests that the claim may be overstated or misrepresented.
Additionally, the reliability of the claim hinges on the accuracy of the data source it originates from. If the figures are not corroborated by the Census Bureau or other reputable demographic studies, they should be treated with skepticism.
Conclusion
Verdict: Needs Research
The claim that the U.S. population has declined for 17 consecutive months and provides specific population figures lacks direct confirmation from authoritative sources. While the U.S. Census Bureau does indicate trends in population growth and decline, the specific numbers and duration of decline mentioned in the claim require further verification. As such, more research is needed to substantiate the claim with accurate and reliable data.
